Is your luxury vinyl plank flooring starting to lift, bubble, or separate? Understanding the causes of Vinyl Flooring Buckling can help in preventing future issues.
Here are quick fixes you can try to address Vinyl Flooring Buckling.
1. Check the expansion gap
Floating floors need a 1/4 inch (6–10 mm) gap around all walls.
If the floor is “pinched,” trim the edges → the planks will relax and lay flat again.
If the floor is “pinched,” trim the edges → the planks will relax and lay flat again.
Learn more in our guide on SPC Flooring Installation
2. Inspect the subfloor
Uneven subfloors are the #1 cause of lifting.
Find any high/low spots → level them with floor patch or self-leveling compound.
Find any high/low spots → level them with floor patch or self-leveling compound.
Proper subfloor prep is explained by The Home Depot.
3. Re-lock loose planks
Dust or incomplete clicks can cause planks to pop up.
Lift the section, clean the joints, and re-install it firmly.
Lift the section, clean the joints, and re-install it firmly.
4. Check for moisture, temperature
Moisture from basements, leaks, or concrete can push planks upward.
Fix the source and allow the area to dry before reinstalling.
Fix the source and allow the area to dry before reinstalling.
See moisture guidelines from EPA.
5. Call a Professional
Good news:
99% of lifting issues can be fixed without replacing the whole floor — just a small repair in the problem area.
